Just-In-Time access approval for `pgcli`

Just-In-Time access approval with pgcli changes how engineers reach production databases. No static credentials. No shared passwords. No unmonitored logins. Instead, each session starts with a request, a review, and a time‑bound grant. By combining the speed of pgcli with a solid JIT workflow, you cut the attack surface to near zero while keeping query speed fast.

pgcli is a feature‑rich PostgreSQL command‑line client known for autocompletion, syntax highlighting, and clean integration with existing workflows. On its own, pgcli still relies on credentials stored somewhere—often a risk. By adding Just‑In‑Time access approval, credentials exist only for the approved session. No lingering keys in config files, no over‑privileged roles in the database.

The setup is straightforward. First, connect your PostgreSQL instance to an access broker that supports JIT approval. Next, configure pgcli to request ephemeral credentials from that broker. Each time you need access, you trigger a request. Once approved, the broker issues a short‑lived user and password. These are injected directly into pgcli for immediate use. When the time limit expires, access is revoked automatically.

Integrating Just‑In‑Time access with pgcli delivers strong security, detailed audit logs, and reduced risk from credential leaks. It also satisfies compliance requirements for privileged account management without forcing engineers into clumsy tools. Your database stays locked down until the second you need it, then locks again without manual cleanup.

See Just‑In‑Time access approval for pgcli in action at hoop.dev and go from zero to secure access in minutes.